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Working With Animals Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Desort

Veterinarian - Waterloo, IO

Waterloo, IA · On-site

Provide compassionate, high-quality medical and surgical care for companion animals * Build and maintain trusting client relationships through clear communication and education * Collaborate with ...

Zinpro

3rd Shift Plant Operator

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$23 - $34/hr

The offered rate complies with federal and local regulations and may vary based on factors such as ... Basic computer skills (PC) and basic working knowledge of MS Word and Excel * Ability to read and ...

Zinpro

2nd Shift Plant Operator

Shell Rock, IA · On-site

$23 - $34/hr

The offered rate complies with federal and local regulations and may vary based on factors such as ... Basic computer skills (PC) and basic working knowledge of MS Word and Excel * Ability to read and ...

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All JobsWorking With Animals JobsWorking With Animals Jobs in Waterloo, IA

Working With Animals information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do working with animals jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for working with animals in Waterloo, IA is $21.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does working with animals involve?

Working with animals can include a variety of roles such as veterinary care, animal training, animal shelter work, wildlife conservation, and research. Professionals in this field may care for animals' health, train them for specific tasks, or work to conserve endangered species. The work environment can range from clinics and zoos to laboratories and the wild. Responsibilities often include feeding, cleaning, monitoring behavior, and sometimes educating the public about animal welfare. The job can be physically demanding but is often rewarding for animal lovers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a career working with animals?

To thrive in a career working with animals, you generally need knowledge of animal behavior, basic animal care, and, for some roles, certifications or degrees in animal science or veterinary technology. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, record-keeping systems, and sometimes first aid or animal CPR certification is typical. Compassion, patience, and strong observational skills are crucial soft skills for ensuring animal welfare and effective communication with team members or pet owners. These skills and qualities are vital for promoting animal health, safety, and positive human-animal interactions in various professional settings.

What are some common challenges faced when working with animals in a professional setting?

Professionals working with animals often encounter challenges such as unpredictable animal behavior, physically demanding tasks, and emotional stress from caring for sick or injured animals. Adapting quickly to each animal's unique temperament and needs is essential, as is following strict safety and hygiene protocols. Teamwork is also crucial, as animal care roles frequently require close collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and other specialists to ensure the well-being of the animals.

What is the difference between Working With Animals vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectWorking With AnimalsAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsVaries; often no formal certification neededCertification or training often preferred or required
Work EnvironmentZoos, shelters, farms, pet storesVeterinary clinics, animal shelters, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal welfare organizations, pet industry, farmsVeterinary hospitals, research facilities, shelters
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles involving animalsDetails about animal care responsibilities and qualifications

Working With Animals is a broad term covering various roles involving animal interaction, while Animal Care Technicians focus specifically on providing medical and daily care in veterinary or shelter settings. Both roles require a passion for animals, but Animal Care Technicians often need specific training or certification. The choice depends on your desired work environment and career goals.

How do I start to work with animals?

To start working with animals, gain relevant experience through volunteering at shelters, farms, or veterinary clinics. Obtain necessary certifications such as animal first aid or pet CPR, and develop skills in handling and caring for different species. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma and a genuine interest in animal welfare.

What are good careers that work with animals?

Careers that work with animals include veterinarian, zookeeper, animal trainer, wildlife rehabilitator, pet groomer, and veterinary technician. These roles often require specific training, certifications, or degrees, and involve working in environments such as clinics, zoos, shelters, or farms.

What careers can I have with working with animals?

Careers working with animals include roles such as veterinarian, zookeeper, animal trainer, wildlife rehabilitator, pet groomer, and veterinary technician. These jobs often require specific training, certifications, or degrees, and involve working in environments like clinics, zoos, shelters, or farms.

What is the job called when you work with animals?

A job involving working with animals is typically called an animal caretaker, zookeeper, veterinarian, animal trainer, or pet groomer, depending on the specific duties. These roles often require knowledge of animal behavior, proper handling skills, and sometimes certifications or licenses. The work environment can include zoos, veterinary clinics, farms, or pet stores.

What job categories do people searching Working With Animals jobs in Waterloo, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Working With Animals jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Working With Animals jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Working With Animals job openings:

Working With Animals jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working With Animals job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,514 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Swine Technician Silver Top FT

Pipestone (Emp Serv LLC)

Hazleton, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Objective

A Swine Technician is responsible for the daily care, health, and welfare of pigs in a swine production facility. This role involves performing tasks related to animal husbandry, health management, feeding, breeding, and facility maintenance to ensure the highest standards of swine production.

Role and Responsibilities

  • Learn and monitor the health and well-being of swine, ensuring they receive proper nutrition and care.
  • Follow all production protocols and procedures to maximize sow and gilt production & efficiencies.
  • Administer vaccinations, medications, and other health treatments as directed.
  • Ensure pigs have access to adequate feed, air and water.
  • Monitor feed intake and adjust feeding programs as necessary.
  • Identify and report signs of illness or injury, following proper protocols for treatment.
  • Assist with farrowing (birthing) and newborn piglet care, including feeding and processing.
  • Assist in breeding activities, including artificial insemination and pregnancy checks.
  • Monitor sows during gestation and farrowing to ensure a healthy process.
  • Maintain clean and sanitary conditions in barns, pens, and other facilities.
  • Operate and maintain equipment used in swine production.
  • Maintain accurate records of animal health, treatments, and performance in a timely manner
  • Communicate effectively with the employee and the farm management
  • Follow animal welfare, biosecurity regulations and company policies.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

  • No experience required.
  • Experience in animal husbandry or swine production is preferred but not required.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols.

Work Environment

  • Exposure to loud noises, odors, and varying temperatures.
  • Working with live animals in close quarters.

Physical Requirements

  • Standing, walking, and ability to be on feet 8 to 10 hours per day
  • Frequent bending, reaching, squatting, and kneeling
  • Frequent use of one or both hands/arms to grasp or pull
  • Frequent lifting of objects weighing 3-20 pounds
  • Occasional bending while pulling and/or lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds, or requiring up to 50 pounds of force to move
  • Occasional bending while pulling and/or lifting objects weighing up to 100 pounds or requiring up to 100 pounds of force to move with the assistance of another person as needed
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
  • Must be able to print and/or write legibly

Additional Requirements

  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as needed
  • Must have reliable method of transportation to get to work

Compensation, Pay & Benefits

  • Benefits Package includes Paid Single Health Insurance, Family Health Coverage available
  • Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Holiday pay & Paid Time Off

Apply